UK deploys new Airbus H145 helicopters to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus

The first of three Airbus H145 Jupiter HC Mk2 helicopters has completed its maiden flight at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. Part of a £148 million UK Ministry of Defence programme, these aircraft are replacing the retired Puma HC2 fleet. Once fully operational, they will provide 24/7 search and rescue, emergency response, medical evacuation, and intelligence surveillance capabilities. Squadron Leader Steven Bradley of 84 Squadron confirmed that the helicopters are intended to improve year-round operational agility. Training for pilots is currently underway with support from Airbus engineers. The H145 units are scheduled to assume aerial firefighting duties from existing Chinook helicopters by the 2027 wildfire season. These helicopters are deployed to serve both the UK and its allies across the region.